Anand and Anand Vs Union of India and Ors. (Delhi High Court)
Hon’ble High Court of Delhi imposed the cost of Rs. 20,000 on Audit-I and GST EAST for non-appearance and non-filing of the counter- affidavit.
Stated that if the Respondent wishes to file a counter-affidavit, cost of Rs.20,000/- will have to be deposited with the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA). The DHCBA will use the money towards welfare measures that have been put in place, for advocates, enrolled with it.
Further, directed the Respondent to file counter-affidavit within the next five weeks subject to payment of cost of Rs. 20,000/- and listed the matter on August 25, 2021.
FULL TEXT OF THE HIGH COURT ORDER/JUDGEMENT
[Court hearing convened via video-conferencing on account of COVID-19]
1. There is neither an appearance on behalf of the respondents, nor have the respondents filed a counter-affidavit.
2. In case, the respondents wish to file a counter-affidavit, cost of Rs. 20,000/- will be deposited with the Delhi High Court Bar Association [DHCBA]. The DHCBA will use the money towards welfare measures that have been put in place, for advocates, enrolled with it.
3. Counter-affidavit, if any, will be filed within the next five weeks, albeit, subject to payment of cost, as indicated in paragraph 2 above. Rejoinder, thereto, will be filed before the next date of hearing.
